[pct-l] Light ice axe

[Eskie user <sfox@eskimo.com>]

I used one of those Camp aluminum ice axes (about US$40 from MEC) for much
of last year's trips. Although it isn't good for serious climbing, I think
it works fine for something like a PCT hike. The axe isn't approved by the
UIAA. It weighs about a pound. Not the lightest, but close and certainly
an affordable option. The paint is no good on it. I chipped off most of it
in only one season. I'm pleasantly suprised how well the adze held up
digging some cat holes and chopping ice a few times. I figured it wouldn't
be strong enough for such "abuse". 

Note that there are aluminum axes that are approved and weight slightly
less. 


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